Minnesota, Test-Maker Decide to Part Company

Minnesota and its main student-testing contractor are parting ways after a rocky run.

Documents made public last week reveal that the American Institutes for Research has decided against seeking renewal of its $61 million contract with the state education department. The state is soliciting bidders to replace the contractor after its three-year deal expires next year.

The decision comes amid frustration over technical glitches that affected tests taken by thousands of students last spring. Education department officials cite such problems as test-question design, scoring, inability to meet deadlines, and poor communication. AIR officials say the problems rest with the department.

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